Things to do in Jeddah

About Jeddah

Jeddah is the historic gateway to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, characterized by its position as a major port on the Red Sea coast. The city serves as a distinct cultural intersection, showcasing ancient architecture in its old quarter alongside modern, sprawling waterfront developments like the North Corniche. Visitors can explore the heritage of the Hijaz region at Bayt Nassif Museum or enjoy expansive recreational spaces such as Prince Majid Park. The urban landscape is anchored by the world's tallest fountain, King Fahad's Fountain, which remains a defining feature of the city's skyline.

Good to know

1. 1

   Jeddah's historic district, Al-Balad, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2014 and is famous for its traditional houses built using Red Sea coral stone.

2. 2

   The city has historically served as the primary entry point for millions of pilgrims traveling to the holy cities of Islam for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

3. 3

   Jeddah is home to one of the largest open-air art galleries in the world, featuring hundreds of sculptures installed across the city's various roundabouts and public spaces.

4. 4

   The city was once surrounded by a defensive wall until its demolition in 1947, which allowed the city to expand rapidly beyond its original gates.

5. 5

   Jeddah operates the King Abdulaziz International Airport, which contains the world's largest terminal dedicated solely to Hajj pilgrims.